The most populated borough of New York, Brooklyn is often celebrated as a hub of artistic talent and bohemian living. However, living in Brooklyn can be stressful. The cost of living, the constant struggle to find your place, and the vastness of New York City overall can feel overwhelming.
Finding a therapist in Brooklyn, NY may not be as easy as it seems at first glance, given the large population. Even surrounded by a lot of people, the right therapist for your needs may remain elusive. In clinical practice, a strong therapeutic alliance is necessary for success, and many clients find it difficult to find the person that they can feel comfortable with. In addition, it may not be easy to find practitioners of less common branches like music or art therapy.
That’s where online therapy platforms such as BetterHelp come in. There are many benefits to online therapy, not least of which is a variety of therapists. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 licensed mental health professionals that specialize in a number of different types of therapy. In addition, most people are matched with a therapist within just a couple of days, and you have the option to switch therapists for free until you find the one who feels right for you.
You and your therapist work collaboratively over video chat, text, or phone to learn about tools and strategies you can use to achieve the things you are most passionate about. Your online therapist can help you learn better communication skills, identify and heal past trauma, teach stress management techniques, and offer emotional support. Therapy sessions can be worked around your busy schedule, and held in the comfort of your own home.
For individuals or families in the Brooklyn or Long Island area looking for a strength based approach to treat mental health conditions, learn how to effectively manage stress, or are just looking to work on self-actualization, BetterHelp can help match you with a therapist that can meet your individual needs.
Cheryl Pacione
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 25 years of experience. I establish trust and rapport with many diverse populations such as LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamous relationships. I sat on the New York State committee for inclusion and diversity for several years. I specialize in working with persons with a variety of mental health concerns such as: Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders and Sexual Identity. I also work with transition age youth who are on the spectrum. In addition, I am a Vocational Counselor so I can assist with job-related issues. My familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act puts me in a uniquely qualified position to help the disabled population. I am located in the USA in the Eastern Standard Time Zone. I work here full time Monday-Friday from 9:00AM - 9:00PM EST and Saturdays 11:00AM - 4:00PM EST. Most clients enjoy a combination of message-based communication that is not in real time along with regular weekly live sessions by video, or phone. I respond to individuals within 24 hours of receiving a message. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. "A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step."
Virginia Gutman
Welcome! My intent is to create a non-judgmental space for you to share what you need to talk about most. I empower individuals and couples by teaching them practical tools so that they can better navigate through life's tough spots. After listening and getting an understanding of what you'd like to be better, I tailor my intervention to match your treatment goals. While I’m a versatile therapist my niche is guiding people through depression/sadness, anxiety/worries, and relationship/communication issues while teaching them lasting skills to address their challenges. In case you're curious to know or are looking for something specific about what interventions I use- I typically use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). However I also have experience with a psychodynamic psychotherapy. No matter what I use I'm tailoring the intervention to my clients and my approach is ALWAYS strength-based. Meaning I view all my clients as people with strengths and resiliency no matter what their circumstance, and I aim to help them use that to be empowered. When I'm not helping people getting to a better place in life (my favorite!) I like going to new places/trying new things, hiking, and being outside in general. But I also really enjoy a good lazy weekend afternoon watching six episodes of a TV show. Balance is key!
Laura Isabelle
Bogged down with anxiety and depression? Struggling to communicate your wants and needs to those around you? Struggling with a recent transition in life? All of these things can be exhausting and challenging but, it doesn't have to be. I am here to help you find clarity and start the life you have been envisioning. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have a background in Mental Health. I received my Master's degree in Social Work from SUNY Albany and my Bachelor's degree from Providence College. My career started in an outpatient day treatment program for adults diagnosed with a serious mental illness. I then worked for several years in an inpatient psychiatric setting. Currently, I am Director of Crisis Services, providing crisis work to adults with serious mental illness. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I take a strengths based approach and believe a good therapeutic relationship is one that is collaborative. I believe each person is unique and comes with their own unique set of strengths and challenges. I treat each person with unconditional positive regard, respect, and empathy. I work to provide a safe and trust worthy space for you. I truly look forward to working with you and assist you in achieving happiness.
Jamie Schwartz
My name is Jamie Schwartz. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker and Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor in the state of New York. I have over 20 years experience working with substance use disorders and mental health issues. I have worked with a wide range of client concerns such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorders and eating disorders. I am a person centered counselor with a warm and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with respect and dignity. I will meet you where you are and move along at your pace. I acknowledge the courage it takes to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and congratulate you on your choice in reaching that goals. I look forward to working together.
Stacey Schmid
I am licensed in New York with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Jill Letizia
I am licensed in New York with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Toni Spera
I am licensed in New York with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse among other areas. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey, and am confident that together we can create positive change for you. Taking that first step towards healing can be scary, but you will not be alone in starting on your path towards building the life you want for yourself.
Dr. Alaiyia Williams
Alaiyia Nicole Williams, MSW, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist who specializes in working with Transgender and Gender-Non-Conforming individuals. Alaiyia is also a Black Woman of Trans-experience who has great understanding of the inequality, stress, and mental health concerns that plague her community. In addition to her passion for trans mental health, Alaiyia's passion for working with disenfranchised people of color and members of all ethnic origins from marginalized communities, drives her overall journey for social justice and equality. Alaiyia was born and raised in the Alexandria, Louisiana area. Her down home upbringing is at the foundation of her strong commitment to family and those she holds dear. Her education endeavors include a BS in Psychology from Northwestern State University (Natchitoches, Louisiana) and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington (Arlington, Texas). She has been practicing as a Licensed Clinician for nearly 10 years in a variety of settings and is licensed in various states across the US! The opportunity to work in a variety of jurisdictions has afforded Alaiyia the opportunity to develop a vivid and extensive knowledge base and also an immensely savvy expertise for navigating systems and resources often utilized by the individuals she serves! Alaiyia asserts that her ultimate goal is to guide anyone she works with to empowerment and a superb sense of self.
Ahmy Brock
I have worked with adult individuals and couples for the past 20+ years and highly value each person's individuality and uniqueness. Whatever brings you to therapy, we can work on it together. Learning new skills to manage anxiety, depression, grief, life stress, spiritual growth, and relationship challenges can increase life satisfaction, even when life feels difficult. I offer a non-judgmental space where we collaboratively develop steps toward your goals. I welcome the opportunity to help you examine how your life experiences have influenced your current habits and assist you with building new, healthier habits. My specialties include using evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT); in addition to Experiential, Intuitive, Solution-focused, and Strength-based approaches. I often provide handouts to enhance session content so you can reach your goals efficiently. Life on this planet is amazing and difficult, and joyous and frustrating (and so on). My goal is to empower people to navigate life's challenges with more knowing, confidence, and ease; regardless of the chaos or calm occurring within the normal ebb and flow of life.
Matthew Wichlinski
I am licensed in New York with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find counseling in Brooklyn
Finding the best therapist close by in Brooklyn can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Brooklyn. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Brooklyn, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Brooklyn or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Brooklyn area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Brooklyn, elsewhere in Kings, or in the greater state of New York.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Brooklyn area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Brooklyn therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Brooklyn due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Brooklyn may not take health insurance, some in the state of New York may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of New York you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Brooklyn, New York working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.
How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Brooklyn above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Brooklyn helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?
BetterHelp's verified Brooklyn therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Brooklyn therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Brooklyn therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.
With a lot of people in NY, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 11236 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Brooklyn counselor?
Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Brooklyn licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.
Is mental health care and therapy worth it?
Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Brooklyn, New York can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Brooklyn has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Brooklyn:
11201, 11203, 11204, 11205, 11206, 11207, 11208, 11209, 11210, 11211, 11212, 11213, 11214, 11215, 11216, 11217, 11218, 11219, 11220, 11221, 11222, 11223, 11224, 11225, 11226, 11228, 11229, 11230, 11231, 11232, 11233, 11234, 11235, 11236, 11237, 11238, 11239